Overview

The Philosophy programme at Portland State University provides students with a comprehensive education in the nature of knowledge, reality, and existence. By engaging with fundamental questions about the mind, self, and society, learners develop the analytical tools necessary to navigate complex contemporary issues. This degree is designed to produce versatile thinkers who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to their local and global communities.

Why Philosophy at Portland State University?

Students benefit from a modern curriculum that challenges the status quo and addresses real-world problems through applied analysis. The faculty are dedicated to undergraduate success, offering personalised learning paths that allow students to focus on specific interests such as law, ethics, or the philosophy of science. The department fosters a vibrant intellectual community through the Socratic Society, which hosts discussions with leading global philosophers.

Unique experiential learning opportunities are a hallmark of the department. Students can participate in impactful capstone projects, such as teaching philosophy to children or supporting the Oregon High School Ethics Bowl. These initiatives ensure that theoretical knowledge is translated into practical community engagement, enhancing the overall educational experience in the heart of Portland.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 34599 per year
National fee: USD 34599 per year
Local fee: USD 12999 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum combines historical foundations with contemporary theoretical frameworks. Modules may include:

Ancient Philosophy
Early Modern Philosophy
Formal Logic
Business Ethics
Environmental Ethics
Philosophy of Law
International Human Rights
Biomedical Ethics

Careers with Philosophy

Graduates are recognised as independent thinkers with highly adaptable skills in research, writing, and problem-solving. These competencies are highly valued across diverse sectors, including technology, public policy, healthcare, and legal services. The analytical rigour of the programme serves as excellent preparation for those pursuing advanced Master’s or Doctoral studies.

Alumni have successfully secured roles at prominent organisations and institutions. Graduates often find employment with major employers such as Intel, Kaiser Permanente, and OHSU. Others pursue careers within law firms, educational institutions, and various government or policy-focused organisations, demonstrating the broad professional utility of a philosophy degree.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Ancient Philosophy

Early Modern Philosophy

Philosophy of Mind

Topics in Social and Political Philosophy

Classical Figures: Nietzsche

Classical Figures: Hume

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-07-22 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-05 00:00:00
Starting 2026-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-05 00:00:00
Starting 2027-03-31 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-05 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

180 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Blended, Online

Campus Location

Portland, United States

Disciplines

Philosophy View 996 other Bachelors in Philosophy in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You must have a cumulative (overall) grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 when converted to the U.S. 4.0 grading scale.
Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement. You may be admitted to Portland State University and an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) pathway if you do not meet PSU's English Language Proficiency Requirement. Learn more about PSU’s English language programs.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Out-of-State

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12999 USD / year

≈ 12999 USD / year

Living costs

Portland

United States

1271 - 2262 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Philosophy.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Portland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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